Puddles, standing water attract mosquitoes

Michael Boyd

Mosquitoes thrive in the mild spring weather and take advantage of standing water left behind by intermittent spring showers. Puddles and standing water also serve as both a breeding ground and refuge from the hotter summer temperatures. Thus, when you receive customers’ calls for help, it is crucial to include them in the integrated pest management (IPM) walk of their homes and properties. Point out areas of water collection and holes in screens large enough to allow a mosquito to pass. Make recommendations for remediation as simple as moving items into areas that receive greater sunlight to take advantage of evaporation. Make customers part of the team.

If the problem persists after remediation, consider the application of a conventional or natural product. I always come down on the natural side. We all know the temporary, but effective impact of citronella. However, there have been several breakthroughs in the creation of innovative 25(b) products — many of which use scents that naturally turn away mosquitoes, such as cinnamon, peppermint, cedar, lemongrass, patchouli, lavender and more.

It’s important to keep mosquitoes at bay, while maintaining a healthy environment for all.